Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen USB Audio Interface

The Focusrite Scarlett 18i16 4th Gen is a professional-grade USB audio interface that serves as a central hub for larger project studios and home recording setups. As a part of the fourth-generation Scarlett lineup, it introduces significant upgrades and new features that enhance its performance, sound quality, and ease of use.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Exceptional Audio Quality: The 4th Gen Scarlett interfaces are equipped with premium converters derived from Focusrite’s flagship RedNet series. They offer a massive dynamic range of 122 dB, allowing you to capture every detail of your sound with pristine clarity.
• Upgraded 4th-Generation Preamps: The 18i16 features four high-quality, ultra-low-noise microphone preamps. With a huge 69 dB of gain range, these preamps can handle even the most demanding microphones, including low-output dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B, without the need for an external preamplifier.
• “Air” Mode with Presence and Harmonic Drive: The classic “Air” mode from previous generations has been refined. It now includes two distinct modes: “Presence,” which adds a high-end boost for greater clarity, and “Harmonic Drive,” a new DSP-based effect that adds a vintage warmth and punch, emulating a classic studio console.
• Auto Gain and Clip Safe: These new “smart” features are a game-changer for producers and engineers.
  • Auto Gain: Simply hit a button, play for a few seconds, and the interface automatically sets the perfect recording level for you, ensuring you get an optimal signal without clipping.
  • Clip Safe: This feature automatically adjusts the gain if your signal gets too hot, protecting your takes from clipping and distortion.
• Comprehensive I/O: The Scarlett 18i16 is a true studio hub with a wide range of inputs and outputs:
  • Inputs: 4 x combo mic/line/Hi-Z inputs, 4 x 1/4″ line inputs, ADAT, and S/PDIF. This gives you a total of 18 simultaneous inputs.
  • Outputs: 4 x 1/4″ TRS line outputs, 2 x 1/4″ independent headphone outputs, ADAT, and S/PDIF.
• Independent Headphone Outputs: The two independent, custom-designed headphone amps provide loud, clear, and accurate playback. This is great for an engineer and an artist to have their own separate mixes during a recording session.
• Robust Software Suite: The interface comes with the “Hitmaker Expansion” software bundle, which includes industry-standard tools like Ableton Live Lite, Avid Pro Tools Intro+, and a range of plugins, virtual instruments, and effects from brands like Antares, Native Instruments, and Softube.
• Focusrite Control 2 Software: The updated software for desktop and mobile devices allows for easy routing, level management, and remote control of the preamps, which is a great feature for adjusting levels from the recording room.